LaLiga 2025/26 Matchday 7 kicks off at the Estadio Montilivi on Friday, September 26, with the Catalan derby between Girona and Espanyol. The two sides have had very different starts to the season: the home team are bottom of the table with just 2 points, while the visitors sit close to the European spots with 11 points collected. Given their position, Girona desperately need their first league win to boost their relegation battle and face the upcoming fixtures against Valencia and Barcelona with more optimism. A defeat, however, would keep Michel’s men at the bottom and officially drag them into the relegation fight. After narrowly avoiding relegation last season with just one point above the drop zone, the Red and Whites are determined not to suffer through another nightmare campaign. Beating Espanyol is therefore crucial. On the other hand, the Blue and Whites have started well, keeping a safe distance from the relegation zone while aiming for a European push. Coach Manolo Gonzalez’s target is clear: return from Montilivi with three points to strengthen their mid-table position, extend their lead over the bottom teams, and keep alive the dream of a more ambitious season.

Girona's Recent Form and Key Stats

Girona are going through a terrible spell, still winless after six league games with a record of two draws and four defeats. In their midweek fixture, Michel’s men managed to secure a positive 1-1 draw away against Athletic Bilbao, although the Basques had been dealing with fixture congestion.

The Red and Whites come into Matchday 7 bottom of the table with just 2 points, 3 goals scored and 16 conceded. These numbers highlight not only their defensive problems—averaging 2.67 goals conceded per game—but also their attacking struggles, scoring just 0.5 goals per match on average.

At home, their form is disastrous: including the end of last season, they have lost five consecutive matches at Montilivi. This season, they have already been beaten there by Rayo Vallecano, Sevilla, and Levante, scoring only once and conceding 9 goals (3 per game).

Espanyol's Recent Form and Key Stats

After a strong start, Espanyol have slowed down, picking up just one point in their last two matches. On Wednesday, September 23, Manolo Gonzalez’s team drew 2-2 at home against Valencia, avoiding defeat thanks to a stoppage-time goal from captain Javi Puado.

Despite the recent drop, Espanyol remain in good shape, sitting in the upper part of the table with 11 points from three wins, two draws and just one loss. Their strength lies in attack, averaging 1.67 goals per game, although their defense has shown weaknesses, conceding 1.5 goals per match.

Another concern is their away form. Espanyol’s last away victory dates back to April 12, since then they have recorded four defeats and two draws. In their two away matches this season, they earned a point against Real Sociedad and lost to Real Madrid.

Girona vs Espanyol Prediction and Tactical Overview

For Girona, this clash already feels like a last chance: if they want to climb out of the bottom, they must collect points in this Catalan derby. Michel’s men face Valencia and Barcelona next, with the real risk of going empty-handed.

The Red and Whites will try to use home advantage, chasing their first win at Montilivi in five months. Historical records support them: Girona are unbeaten in their last six meetings with Espanyol, with four wins and two draws.

As for the Blue and Whites, their away struggles suggest that a victory here is unlikely. However, Gonzalez’s men will be eager to bounce back after two disappointing results, and a draw cannot be ruled out, which would keep them in touch with the top positions.

This looks set to be a balanced encounter, with both teams giving everything in a derby atmosphere. Motivation could be the decisive factor, especially for Girona, who come off a positive draw at San Mamés.

• Girona vs Espanyol Prediction by BetMines: Girona win or draw (Double Chance 1X) – 67% probability

Probable Lineups Girona vs Espanyol

GIRONA (4-5-1): Gazzaniga; Rincon, Reis, Blind, Moreno; Asprilla, Ounahi, Witsel, Martin, Gil; Vanat. Coach: Michel

ESPANYOL (4-5-1): Dmitrovic; El Hilali, Cabrera, Calero, Romero; Dolan, Lozano, Milla, Exposito, Puado; Fernandez. Coach: Manolo Gonzalez